By By Elizabeth Ugbo
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to the swift implementation of the revitalised peace agreement in South Sudan during the C-5 Plus Summit on Monday in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, urging the immediate and unconditional release of First Vice President Riek Machar and other key opposition leaders to support lasting peace and stability in the country.
Call for Release of Opposition Leaders
Tinubu, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, stressed the importance of convening an all-inclusive South Sudan national dialogue and reconciliation forum. He urged all parties to engage constructively in the mediation process without preconditions.
“It is imperative to convene an all-inclusive national dialogue and reconciliation forum and engage constructively with authorities,” Tinubu said.
Support for Peace and National Unity
The Nigerian leader joined other African nations in recognising the South Sudanese people’s desire for peace, sustainable development, and a speedy resolution of the conflict. He highlighted that national unity and elite consensus are crucial to the country’s transition.
Tinubu also called on African leaders to prioritise inclusive, peaceful, and transparent elections as the only way to build trust and confidence in South Sudan’s leadership.
Regional Cooperation and Mediation
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa praised African leaders’ determination to resolve the conflict, noting the delayed implementation of the revitalised peace agreement eight years after its endorsement.
Djibouti President and IGAD Chairman Ismail Omar Guelleh reaffirmed the bloc’s commitment to peace, proposing the appointment of a lead mediator to monitor progress and address emerging challenges.
Other key attendees included AU Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, Ethiopia’s Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali, Algeria’s President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, and representatives from Chad, Rwanda, and other nations.
Nigeria’s Support for Gulf of Guinea Maritime Security
Tinubu also pledged full infrastructural and operational support for the Combined Maritime Task Force in the Gulf of Guinea. Nigeria will provide office buildings, ships, helicopters, and personnel to strengthen the Force’s efforts against transnational organised crimes and enhance regional maritime security.
